Stavros
Advocates for Independent Living
2006 Paul Winske Awards
Caesar's Steak House (Springfield) - The East Columbus Avenue eatery has become fully accessible for persons using wheelchairs thanks to a new elevator and an accessible restroom. The owners really value all their customers.
Chateau Provost (Chicopee) - We've had the access awards here for years, so we thought it was time to give Michael Provost some well-deserved recognition. With spacious corridors, accessible restrooms, and accessible dining areas - and an accommodating staff who do their best to make every guest feel welcome.
Cushman Market and Café (Amherst) - The new owners have taken a cramped, old general store and made it into a lovely new store and café, with good parking, a fine ramp, and very helpful staff.
Food for Thought Books(Amherst) - When more space opened up next door, the FTB people put in two ramps and an accessible restroom. The whole store is now wheelchair accessible for both browsing and public readings.
Great Falls Discovery Center (Turners Falls) - The Center, built near the Connecticut River falls that divide Turners Falls and Gill, is a wonder of modern access. Fully accessible to wheelchairs, there are also tours available by earphones and Braille displays in front of each exhibit.
Ludlow Boys' and Girls' Club (Ludlow) - This is one club that's trying to include everyone. From the TTY at the front desk to family changing rooms to a lift-equipped swimming pool (really!), the Boy's and Girls' Club is doing a tremendous job making its programs accessible to everyone.
The Mall at Moore's Corner (Leverett) - The owner, John Rathbun, has installed a ramp to make this community art and event space truly open to all.
Memorial Hall (Shelburne Falls) - This old building in downtown Shelburne Falls defies the odds. With a new elevator and accessible restrooms, the Hall shows that access is possible in the middle of old New England towns. Ninety-nine (99) Restaurant (Eastfield Mall, Springfield) - Not only does this 99 restaurant feature basic access, it also has Large Print and Braille menus: now that's unusual!
Randall's Farm and Greenhouse (Ludlow) - This venue for produce, plantings, and more is accessible throughout, with personal assistance available for shopping.
Richardson's Candy Kitchen (Deerfield) - This long-established Franklin County chocolate and candy store added a small wing to allow wheelchair access via a ramp, and then remodeled the interior to provide plenty of space for customers using chairs.
Town of Shutesbury The Town of Shutesbury has made a strong commitment to access in all town-owned buildings. And the place is unique in the United States in its commitment to make the workings and features of town government available to persons with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.
United Congregational Church (Holyoke) - This church on High Street has done a remarkable job addressing access, with multiple accessible entrances with ramps, lifts, and handrails. Just as notable are signed services for deaf parishioners.